Immunoglobulin replacement therapy in children.
The benefit of immunoglobulin (IG) replacement in primary antibody deficiencies is unquestionable. Many of these congenital disorders present early in life and this therapy is often first implemented in the young. This article focuses on the indications of IG replacement in children, with an emphasis on the specific diagnostic problems encountered in this population. Also presented is an overview of the practical aspects of IG administration in the pediatric setting, including the recognition and management of adverse reactions. Finally, the advent of subcutaneous IG, a therapeutic IG modality with the potential to have a great impact on the quality of life of children with antibody deficiencies and their families, is discussed.
Garcia-Lloret
Maria
M
Division of Immunology, Allergy and Rheumatology, Department of Pediatrics, The David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California at Los Angeles, MDCC 12-430, 10833 Le Conte Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90095-1752, USA.
McGhee
Sean
S
Chatila
Talal A
TA
D002648:Child; D054796:Drug Dosage Calculations; D015658:HIV Infections / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D007116:Immunization, Passive / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods*; D016867:Immunocompromised Host; D007153:Immunologic Deficiency Syndromes / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy*; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007260:Infusion Pumps; D007279:Injections, Subcutaneous; D018805:Sepsis / Q000276:immunology / Q000628:therapy